Driver killed after car goes airborne, slams into tree, police say

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Police said speed and alcohol were both factors in an overnight crash that left a man dead in northeast Charlotte.

Investigators said the driver, Ralick McKoy, ran off the right side of Eastway Drive near North Tryon Street around 1 a.m., hit a curb and went airborne before slamming into a tree.

Two officers heard the crash and ran over to help, but McKoy was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officers said McKoy was not wearing a seatbelt and that the car was speeding when it crashed. Police also believe alcohol played a role in the wreck.

Police closed a portion of Eastway Drive while they investigated, but the road was reopened before 4 a.m.

Cox Media Group